Paradise Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Paradise Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Illinois. It was completed in 1929 and is 97 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 46 ft (taller than 88.9% in IL) |
| Dam Length | 1,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 174 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 21,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1929 (97 years old) |
| NID ID | IL00710 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF MATTOON
Local Government
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Low Hazard 28 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Paradise Lake Dam?
Paradise Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Paradise Lake Dam?
Paradise Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF MATTOON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Paradise Lake Dam built?
Paradise Lake Dam was completed in 1929, making it 97 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Paradise Lake Dam?
Paradise Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Paradise Lake Dam?
Paradise Lake Dam has a dam height of 46 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Paradise Lake Dam last inspected?
Paradise Lake Dam was last inspected on May 3, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.